Athleisure, styled smart

Athleisure has become a wardrobe staple because it can help you move through the day with comfort and encompasses far beyond just workout wear. And, we all know, it's a fan-favourite (particularly if you live here in Vancouver...the birthplace of Lululemon!).

While you might wear athleisure to the gym/exercise class, it is often takes us far beyond becoming a go-to while running errands, travelling, meeting friends for coffee, tackling to-do lists etc. We've all been there (many times) myself included! While I love the comfort inherent in that, I also absolutely love visiting a place like Paris where everyone only wears the gym clothes at the gym and looks so chic on the street.

I am here to advocate for a happy medium. Whenever I go to the gym or a Pilates class, I'll typically pop into the grocery store across the street and absolutely don't do the Parisian complete change. But, if I am doing something casual but not taking part in that level of exercise, I try to incorporate some athletic inspired pieces in a more intentional/styled way.

Below I'm sharing some looks to illustrate some of my tips for blending athleisure and style. Each look utilizes at least one of these key tips:

1) Pair sporty pieces with structured or polished elements

2) Incorporate colour, texture, print or even shine to add visual interest and signal you've put together a look with intention

3) Accessorize to level up and add personality

A little inspiration:

Athleisure doesn't have to mean just leggings. These Lulu tailored shorts offer the comfort of activewear with a more polished silhouette making them an easy option for everything from walking to errands. When putting looks together athleisure looks, consider adding in something that balances out sportier pieces (such as the classic feel of this short). So many activewear brands are including more tailored pieces (pants, dresses, culouttes, skirts, jackets etc.) that offer the comfort we crave while feeling elevated.

Don't be afraid to experiment with unexpected colour combinations as shown here with this chocolate brown and sky blue for a look that's equal parts modern and fashion forward. Brown has had a huge trend moment, but it is classic and works well for so many people - also, it combines beautifully with so many hues! This same principle was applied in the opening look with the soft yellow and blue hues.

Mixing patterns within a similar colour palette is an easy way to print mix while still keeping the look cohesive. Everyday, casual essentials can have stylish interest to easily make casual outfits feel polished and fun. There are so many prints that work well for people who favour a more neutral colour palette (for example: stripes, animal print, dots etc.). Note: in this look also incorporates structure and texture in the bag and metallic in the shoe. Metallics always serve as a neutral while adding that extra interest and personality.

A jumpsuit (or casual dress) is a one-and-done piece that takes the guesswork out of getting dressed. A neutral creates a clean foundation. Here soft shades of teal and blue add subtle colour and personality. It's an easy outfit formula for busy mornings when you want to look put together with minimal effort. Just add your go-to accessories for personality and interest.

I hope these looks spark a little inspiration to create intentional looks that make it easy to transition through your day with confidence, comfort - and style!